Permits and licences for firearms

Permits and licences for acquiring and possessing firearms and firearm components are granted by the police. They are granted by the police department of the municipality of residence. Applications should be submitted to the nearest police station in person. The police may, however, allow an application to be submitted by mail or other means, subject to the requirements prescribed by law. Permits and licences for the acquisition and possession of a firearm or gas spray can also be granted to an association or foundation registered or performing a public function in Finland.

In order to acquire and possess a firearm or firearm component, the applicant must have a justifiable purpose for its use. The applicant must also fulfil the application requirements for acquisition permits. When applying for a firearm acquisition permit, the following must be presented:

passport or ID card (A driving licence is not a valid document to establish identity.)

grounds for seeking the licence (in writing) and other necessary documents supporting the application

military passport, certificate of non-military service, call-up certificate or other certificate that the person is exempt from military service

A firearm acquisition permit is valid for up to six months (except in the case of weapons collectors). The firearm or firearm component obtained based on the acquisition or possession permit must be presented at the police department that granted the licence within 30 days of the acquisition of the item, but no later than the date of expiry of the acquisition permit.